New scholarship opens the door to diabetes research

The early death of his son from diabetes was the catalyst for a bequest to the University of Newcastle by the late Eric Sansom to fund new research into the causes, treatment or prevention of the disease.

Applications are now being invited for the two Neville Eric Sansom scholarships, with the first valued at up to $14,000 and the second consisting of a generous contribution to an Australian Postgraduate Award.

Mr Sansom, who lived in Georgetown and passed away in 2010, wished to ensure his son’s legacy lived on through research into diabetes, which although considered a manageable disease, currently has no cure.

The University of Newcastle Foundation’s Executive Officer Dr Bernie Curran said Neville Sansom suffered from diabetes and died in 1988 at age 49.

“After his son died at such a young age, Mr Sansom wished to support research into the care and management of the disease,” Dr Curran said.

“Each of us finds different ways to make our mark on the world. Eric Sansom left his legacy by making this donation to the University to support something he was passionate about.

“Making a bequest to the University of Newcastle and education is not just a gift – it’s an investment in the future,” Dr Curran said.

The University of Newcastle Foundation aims to encourage philanthropic support for the University of Newcastle. Donations help fund student scholarships and prizes, academic positions, research and community projects.